Adopt

When you choose to adopt a pet, you are saving an animal’s life.

Our dogs and cats live in the homes of volunteer foster families, who work with each pet on housebreaking and basic commands; provide food, toys, bedding, exercise, and a safe environment; manage their medical treatments; and transport them to and from vet appointments, adoption shows and other special events. Most importantly, foster families give our animals love. Through daily interaction, our volunteers develop a keen understanding of each pet’s personality and needs, so they can make the best match between a pet and its forever home.

The best place to meet our adoptable animals is at one of our adoption shows. Our Adoptable Animals list is very current. If an animal is marked “pending”, we are currently following up on an application. We will also note whether or not an animal is expected to attend each adoption show.

NOTE: We are an all-volunteer group and do not operate a shelter. All of our animals are in foster homes. Due to our requirement for a home visit, we generally do not place animals more than an hour’s drive outside Washington, DC. Questions can be directed to pgspcavol@gmail.com.

Adoption Process

Step 1: Meet and greet

All of our adoptions begin with a visit to one of our adoption events where you have a chance to meet and interact with the animal and talk to the foster parent, who can tell you about his or her personality. At the adoption event, a volunteer may interview you to help us understand your needs in a pet. Sometimes one animal receives several excellent applications. We suggest that you list the names of your first and second (or third) choice to increase your chances of adopting from us.

Step 2: Fill out an application

You can do this online or at an adoption event. The adoption coordinator and/or the pet’s foster parent will review all applications received for a pet. The applicant (if any) whose responses best fit the needs of the particular pet will be contacted, usually within a week, to schedule a home visit. If your application is not selected, please don’t take it personally. We try to make the best placement decisions for the animal, to give him or her the best chance at a great new life.

Step 3: Home visit and reference check

When we visit the potential new family, we’re not judging housekeeping skills; we’re looking around the home and yard (inspecting the fence if one is required) to identify potential trouble spots or hazards for the animal. For instance, if we see very ornate antique furniture in your living room and the dog you’ve applied for is a heavy chewer, that warrants a conversation! Remember, we’ve had these animals living in our homes, so we know first-hand what type of living situation is going to work with each and which will be more difficult. We’ll also give your vet (for current or previous pets) a call.

Step 4: Placement

If the home visit goes well, we’ll schedule the placement and complete the contract.

Please understand that because we are all volunteers, we are not able to respond to all applications received. If you do not hear from us within 7 days, please assume that the animal(s) you applied for has been adopted. Remember that we are looking for the most suitable home for the animal. When three good families apply to adopt the same pet, two of them are going to be disappointed. But if you’re willing to work with us and be patient, we will do our best to find a pet that is a good match for your lifestyle and your home.

The SPCA/Humane Society of Prince George’s County, Inc. is a nonprofit organization of volunteers dedicated to animal welfare. We are chartered by the State of Maryland, but we receive no state or county funds. Our activities are supported solely by contributions, dues and fundraising events.